There is no one, true answer. The best tooth replacement option is what aligns with your preferences and current state of your smile. Our Cooper City dentists offer multiple forms of treatment for patients looking to fill in gaps and can work with you to find the right solution.
In the meantime, here’s more about the different .
Why Should I Replace Missing Teeth?
Even a single missing tooth can set off a chain reaction within your mouth. Teeth work together to maintain proper alignment, and when one is lost, neighboring teeth may begin to shift. This misalignment can lead to an uneven bite and jaw discomfort. Over time, the absence of a tooth can also cause bone loss in the jaw, as the stimulation provided by a tooth root is no longer present. This bone loss can alter the shape of the face, giving it a sunken appearance and prematurely aging one’s look.
Beyond aesthetics and oral health, missing teeth can make everyday activities like chewing and speaking more challenging. Overcompensating for the gaps may strain remaining teeth and lead to additional wear and tear. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants or something more traditional isn’t just about appearance, it’s about maintaining function and preserving the health of your mouth and jaw for years to come.
1. Dental Implants (One or Multiple)
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots commonly made of titanium that once topped with a dental crown, closely resemble natural teeth. In fact, implants blend in so seamlessly with the rest of your smile that most people will not even be able to tell you've had one (or a few) placed.
Shaped like small metal screws, single-tooth implants are permanently embedded into your jawbone for long-term stability. That means they're fixed in place and will not move while you eat, speak, and smile. No adhesives or adjustments are required.
After dental implant placement, you will need time to heal and allow for the implant to properly fuse with your jawbone. On average, the healing process takes a few months but every patient is different and our local dental implant dentists can discuss your individual situation with you.
Once fully fused and healed, the abutment (connector piece) is placed and the dental crown is applied on top of that to complete the restoration.
2. Dentures (Full, Partial, & Implant-Supported)
For multiple missing teeth, our dentists can recommend a form of to you. Both full and partial dentures are custom-made and involve false teeth attached to a gum-colored base that rests on top of your gum line.
Patients with many teeth gone (full arch) are better suited for full dentures whereas those missing only one or two teeth will benefit more from partial dentures. Our dentists can perform a thorough dental exam and speak with you about what works for your smile.
Unlike dental implants, removable dentures will take some time to get used to after they're in place. You may notice excess saliva, a bulky or loose feeling, and a sensation that your tongue does not have enough room. All of this is normal and will dissipate after a few weeks of regular wear. If fit issues continue, our dentists would be happy to make adjustments for you.
Not opposed to oral surgery? Implant-supported dentures offer a blend of both options and deliver on long-term stability.
3. Dental Bridge (Traditional or Implant-Supported)
You can think of a dental bridge as just that, a bridge. This permanent, non-removable form of tooth restoration often consists of one false, or pontic, tooth placed in the middle of two adjacent dental crowns. The false tooth is meant to rest on your gums while the crowns fit over two supporting abutment teeth, or single-tooth implants.
The is the preparation of the abutment teeth. Our dentist will need to remove a small portion of enamel from these teeth so that the incoming crowns have room to properly fit on top. A temporary bridge will then be placed for protection until the final version is fabricated and ready for application. Those opting for an implant-supported bridge will need to account for additional healing time before final placement.
If you're looking to close a gap in your smile, a fixed dental bridge is a great way to do just that. It's durable, long-lasting, and is natural-looking so others will not suspect you have a dental bridge.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Tooth replacement isn’t one-size-fits-all. To find out what best suits your smile, our dentists in Cooper City, FL, will need to perform a thorough evaluation and review your records. Call Cooper City Family Dentistry at (954) 252-8257 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
